Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Review | Best Low-Profile Optical Gaming Keyboard

The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro now stands as a full-sized, wireless optical gaming keyboard with a low-profile design, bearing little resemblance to its predecessor – a term I use with some trepidation, given that the last sighting of the DeathStalker line occurred back in 2016. Razer’s initial foray into DeathStalker territory featured chiclet-style membrane keyboards. In some distant echo of that lineage, the new DeathStalker V2 Pro can be described as… flat.

Nevertheless, the updated Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro boasts Razer’s low-profile optical switches, keycaps that are flat but not in the chiclet style, and an aesthetic deserving of its own military grade moniker, aggressive-sounding enough to justify its existence. Personally, I might christen it the “Hellbender,” in homage to those colossal, somewhat comical, flat salamanders that inhabit the Ozarks.

It features Razer’s proprietary optical switches, which can be selected in either a linear or clicky configuration, alongside Chroma-infused per-key RGB illumination. This innovative keyboard offers wireless connectivity through both 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.0, and it flaunts a substantial 40 hours of continuous battery life.

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Design And Build

At first glance, the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro might not seem like anything out of the ordinary. It’s slim, low-profile, and sports clean lines, making it easy on the eyes without any extravagant design quirks. If you’re a fan of minimalism, this keyboard might be right up your alley. The chassis is constructed from lightweight plastic, which keeps the overall weight down. On top of that, it boasts a durable aluminum alloy top plate. This combo ensures the keyboard is not only sturdy but also resistant to fingerprint smudges, thanks to its satiny black finish. The only visible branding is a discreet Razer logo at the bottom center, so you won’t feel like you’re typing on a billboard. The DeathStalker V2 Pro’s aesthetics are all about subtlety.

Full-Size Comfort with a Twist

The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro is a full-sized keyboard, complete with the customary navigation keys, a numeric keypad, and a meticulously machined aluminum multifunction roller, and media control key in the uppermost right quadrant. Astonishingly, it manages to maintain a relatively compact overall profile, measuring 17.2 inches in width and 5.5 inches in depth (437 x 139mm). Its thickness, at its most substantial point, barely exceeds an inch, measuring 26.6mm. On the reverse, it features two sets of collapsible feet to facilitate tilt angle adjustment, with the more pronounced option increasing the keyboard’s rear elevation by approximately 0.25 inches (6.4mm). Despite its lightweight of 1.7 pounds (776.5g), the
keyboard exudes sturdiness and rigidity, with no discernible flex during typing.

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Weight

While it’s slim and lightweight at 1.7 pounds (776.5g), Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Weight feels surprisingly solid with no discernible flex while typing. You can game for hours without worrying about your keyboard giving in under pressure.

Build Quality

The Essence of Excellence The foundation of this extraordinary Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro keyboard speaks to the pinnacle of build quality. The chassis, adorned with a bottom layer of robust plastic and a top plate crafted from solid aluminum, exudes a sense of durability. This combination results in a remarkably rigid structure, with only a subtle hint of flexibility. In a bold departure from the conventional, its low-profile keycaps, composed of ABS plastic, offer a unique profile, standing at a mere half the height of typical keycaps.

Keycaps that Shine Bright

The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro sports low-profile matte black ABS keycaps with laser-etched legends. These keycaps are designed to allow the keyboard’s bright, per-key RGB lighting to shine through beautifully, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. Razer claims that the keycaps have an “ultra-durable” coating for “even greater longevity.” But here’s where a little practical test comes into play. I tossed the DeathStalker V2 Pro into my bag, along with another keyboard, a Razer laptop, and my wallet, for a couple of hours. The result? A few keys showed some small scratches. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s something to be aware of if you’re constantly on the move with your gear.

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro RED Switches

The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro boasts an innovative feature in the form of Razer’s low-profile optical switches, where actuation is initiated by the presence of light rather than the conventional contact-based mechanism. This absence of physical contact bestows swifter actuation, a phenomenon further accelerated, as claimed by Razer, when coupled with the keyboard’s low profile design and reduced key travel distance. Razer offers its optical switches in two distinct variants, linear (red) and clicky (purple), with our review unit being equipped with the linear iteration.

Linear Optical Switches

As a fan of extra-loud clicky mechanical switches, I approached the linear optical switches with skepticism. However, I was pleasantly surprised. These switches feel fairly similar to other linear mechanical switches, with an average actuation force of 45 grams. While they lack the tactile “bump” of traditional switches, the absence of physical contact for actuation brings a unique sensation.

Built-In Dampeners

Razer has equipped the linear optical switches with built-in silicon dampeners, meticulously tuned for a quiet typing experience while retaining a satisfying key bottom-out feel. The result is a keyboard that’s significantly quieter than most mechanical options.

The “Mush” Factor

The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro does have a slight mushiness to it, but it’s still an improvement over standard non-mechanical keyboards. The low-profile and shorter key travel help maintain a good typing speed, but the absence of tactile feedback did impact my accuracy. During this review, I found myself inadvertently pressing the Shift key around 27 times, a testament to the learning curve of this unique keyboard.

DeathStalker V2 Pro Wireless Connection Options

The DeathStalker V2 Pro provides three distinct connection options, catering to different preferences and needs.

2.4GHz Wireless

For gaming and any scenario where latency and lag can be detrimental to your performance, the 2.4GHz wireless connection is the go-to choice. Razer’s HyperSpeed wireless technology takes the lead here, claiming to be 25 percent faster than any other wireless tech on the market. The 2.4GHz wireless connection itself is already known for its speedy and low-latency performance, making it a top pick for gamers who demand the best.

HyperSpeed Multi-Device Functionality

One standout feature of the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro is its HyperSpeed multi-device functionality. This means that the USB-A dongle included with the keyboard can simultaneously support two compatible Razer peripherals, such as a keyboard and a mouse. Although we can’t test this feature without a HyperSpeed-compatible Razer mouse at hand, it’s an excellent solution if you’re running low on available USB ports.

Bluetooth 5.0 Connection

If you’d like to free up some USB ports or connect to other Bluetooth-enabled devices, the keyboard offers a Bluetooth 5.0 connection. You can connect up to three Bluetooth devices at the same time and easily switch between them using the dedicated Bluetooth profile buttons located on the top of the keyboard.

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Battery Life Performance

A crucial aspect of any wireless device is its battery life. The DeathStalker V2 Pro claims to provide 40 hours of continuous use with the backlight set to 50 percent brightness. However, real-world usage can vary depending on your preferences and the demands you place on the keyboard.

Power-Hungry Performance

The DeathStalker V2 Pro may consume more power than you’d anticipate. This is likely because it needs a substantial amount of energy to fuel its unique light-actuated switches, which create a dazzling light show. If you’re a fan of bright and flashy backlighting, you might find yourself reaching for the charging cable more often than expected.

Practicality of Battery Life

While a 40-hour battery life is impressive, practicality varies depending on your usage patterns. Gamers who love long marathon gaming sessions or professionals who rely on their keyboards for extended work hours might want to keep a charging cable handy just in case.

RGB Backlighting with 16.8 million color

Backlighting, Indeed RGB – Affirmative, Per-Key Backlighting – Inclusive, Yes to Effects – Absolutely, Software Controllable – Undoubtedly. This keyboard boasts a comprehensive RGB illumination system, with each key exuding its radiant glow. The accompanying customization software empowers you to exercise full dominion over the spectrum of colors, luminosity, and RGB visual phenomena. Furthermore, when you select the white-only mode, it conjures a pristine, unsullied white hue devoid of any color amalgamation. Notably, the key legends exhibit a trait of being shine-through, which in turn facilitates unobstructed legibility of the legends, even in dimly lit surroundings.

Gaming Experience with Linear Optical Switches

Typing preferences aside, how does the DeathStalker V2 Pro perform in the world of gaming?

Tactile vs. Silent

Gaming requires a different set of demands compared to typing. When typing, many of us prefer tactile, clicky switches that offer audible and physical feedback. In gaming, these characteristics are not always needed. Razer’s linear optical switches are an excellent fit for gaming.

Smooth and Speedy Actuation

The linear optical switches offer a consistent, smooth feel. The actuation speed is remarkable, allowing for quick, precise keypresses. If your gaming sessions demand rapid reactions and pinpoint accuracy, this keyboard can be a game-changer.

Low-Profile Advantage

The low-profile design, coupled with shorter key travel, is a boon for gamers. It ensures that your commands register swiftly, with no tactile impediments. Whether you’re in the heat of battle in a first-person shooter or executing complex combos in a role-playing game, this keyboard can keep up.

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Razer Synapse

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro’s customization lies Razer Synapse. This software is the key to unlocking the full potential of your keyboard. While it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it offers a decent customization experience. Let’s take a closer look at what it brings to the table.

Remap with Precision

In Razer Synapse, you have the power to remap almost all of the DeathStalker V2 Pro’s primary keybinds. From the Windows key to the “Razer HyperShift” function key, you can
tweak them to match your gaming style. However, there are a few exceptions, like the multimedia button, which remains unaltered.

HyperShift: Your Second Keyboard

The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro’s compact design doesn’t allow room for a dedicated set of macro keys. But fear not; this is where Razer’s HyperShift comes into play. It gives you an entire
second keyboard worth of programmable macro keys. Picture it as a secret weapon to conquer your gaming foes.

Light It Up!

Customization isn’t limited to keybinds. With Synapse, you can also fine-tune the keyboard’s lighting and power settings. Personalize the RGB lighting to match your gaming mood, and
take control over the illumination of your battlefield.

HyperSpeed: Dual Device Power

What’s better than one device connected to your keyboard? Two, of course! The DeathStalker V2 Pro features HyperSpeed multi-device pairing utility, allowing you to connect a
second HyperSpeed-compatible device. It’s a game-changer when you need multiple devices working in harmony.

Chroma – The Masterstroke

If you’re a fan of RGB lighting, Razer’s Chroma Studio, Chroma Visualizer, and Chroma Connect utilities will dazzle you. They let you customize the keyboard’s per-key RGB lighting
with different colors and effects. Plus, you can sync this radiant display with other Chroma-equipped Razer peripherals. It’s like painting your gaming world with a palette of colors.

Onboard Profiles: Your Gaming Arsenal

The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro isn’t just about customization while you’re gaming. It can store up to five onboard profiles. This means you can take your preferred settings wherever you go.
No need to reconfigure your keyboard every time you set up for a different game.

Final Verdict

Razer’s latest iteration, the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro, stands apart as a radical departure from its predecessor, and this deviation proves to be a commendable enhancement. The keyboard in question is a visually appealing, low-profile input device that encompasses a comprehensive array of essential features: encompassing connectivity, extensive customization options, and an assortment of visually striking illumination effects. Furthermore, it manages to offer a surprisingly commendable tactile typing experience, coupled with an exceptional gaming interface. While it may not precisely match Razer’s extravagant claim of being “constructed like an impervious fortress,” it certainly exhibits noteworthy resilience given its diminutive, slender, and lightweight design. Nevertheless, it falls slightly short on the excitement meter, and when one contemplates parting with $249 for a keyboard, they would understandably seek a heightened sense of anticipation.

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